Tag Archives: minor amendments

A codicil is a document used to make minor changes to an existing will

A codicil is an additional document added or appended to an existing will for the purpose of making a minor change, amendment or alteration to that will. An example of a minor amendment is when someone wants to change their executor/s and/or trustee/s or appoint a new one. Otherwise lawyers tend to prefer that a new will is made, so as to avoid potential difficulties down the track with interpretation and extra costs.

Legal validity of a codicil

Codicil to existing will or a new will?

As described already, codicil is a short document which may be used when only a minor change is required to a will. If the will was made a long time ago, it may be best to make a new will altogether so there is no inconsistencies. Seek professional advice.

Meaning of “issue”

"Issue" is a legal term meaning all descendants, including children, click the graphic above to read more.

Distribution per stirpes

Per stirpes and per capita are terms describing two ways of distributing a deceased person's property to their descendants. Click the graphic to read more.

Per capita distribution

Per capita distribution is a method of distributing a deceased estate - click the graphic to read more.

Whole blood relations: two common ancestors.

Half-blood relations: one common ancestor.

Related by affinity: is related by marriage.

Consanguinity: is related by blood.

Find a Lawyer

To find a legal practitioner in your state or territory providing legal services in wills and estates, contact your state or territory's law society; links to websites are listed under Australian Law Societies here.

"Solon was the first legislator who introduced wills into Athens; but in many other parts of Greece they were totally discountenanced. In Rome they were unknown, 'till the laws of the Twelve Tables were compiled, which first gave the right of bequeathing;"

Sir William Blackstone, Commentaries on the Laws of England, citation here.

Succession law contains the legal rules and principles regulating the transfer of a person’s property when they die to those entitled to inherit, either under the person's will, or by the statutory rules of intestacy, if they left no will.
Depending on the circumstances, a variety of other interconnected areas of law may apply.

WillsHub is intended for general information and interest only on Australian succession and inheritance law. It is not legal advice nor should it be relied upon as such. Everyone's situation is unique, however it may seem like another's. Readers should seek their own professional advice specific to their circumstances and rely on that. Please read the Terms of Use.